Mission is completed
have completed a mission in Southern Ohio where they helped clear nearly 230 miles of roadway during a 15-day activation, the Guard recently announced. Gov. Mike Dewine directed Ohio National Guard members to assist with ice storm cleanup and debris removal in Gallia and Lawrence counties.
Approximately 60 Soldiers from the Army National Guard’s 1191st Engineer Company, based in Portsmouth, and 40 Airmen from the Air National Guard’s 200th RED HORSE (Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operations Repair Squadron Engineers) Squadron, based in Port Clinton and with a detachment in Mansfield, began supporting local authorities on Feb. 21 and finished on Sunday, March 7, a news release stated.
The soldiers and airmen used chain saws, wood chippers, front-end loaders, and other heavy equipment to clear away fallen trees and other debris clogging critical infrastructure. They hauled away about 490 loads in dump trucks. “The airmen and soldiers showed a lot of flexibility when faced with challenges, including flooding, to get the job done. It’s a great example of the level of professionalism our service members have,” said Ohio Army National Guard Lt. Col. Matthew Molinski.
“This was not just about clearing roads. We were there to help the residents in each of those counties,” he said. “The community support we received was amazing, and we gained an appreciation for helping our fellow Ohioans in their time of need.”